Primitive Archer

Main Discussion Area => Bows => Topic started by: 45-70 nut on December 04, 2016, 08:19:34 am

Title: Black locust design
Post by: 45-70 nut on December 04, 2016, 08:19:34 am
Hi, I'm new to the  PA site but have been building for a few years now with about a dozen bows under my belt and still feel like a novice. I have a black locust stave 67'' long and 1.5'' wide. Most of my experience is with stiff handle flatbows, and with this design I should be able to get a nice 45# flatbow with this stave, but I would like to make a bend thru the handle eastern woodlands style. My question is this: is 1 1/8- 1 1/4 too narrow for this design using BL. I don't have an intended draw weight for this bow as long as it is at or over 45#, and will be a 29'' draw. This will be my first time using BL.
Title: Re: Black locust design
Post by: Marc St Louis on December 04, 2016, 08:43:23 am
I would try and go with 1 1/4" wide but I see no problems with 67" bow
Title: Re: Black locust design
Post by: George Tsoukalas on December 04, 2016, 09:10:57 am
Yes, should be fine. Tiller well. Remember that BL is best with a heartwood back. However, if there is not enough heartwood leaving a layer or 2 of sapwood works as well. Jawge
Title: Re: Black locust design
Post by: 45-70 nut on December 04, 2016, 09:31:51 am
Thanks, I have already worked to the heartwood, now just need to chase a ring. I love  that electric yellow color, should make a beautiful bow.
Title: Re: Black locust design
Post by: Stick Bender on December 04, 2016, 03:33:30 pm
Nothing to add for the BL question but  just wanted to say welcome from another 45-70 guy.
Title: Re: Black locust design
Post by: bubby on December 04, 2016, 06:02:37 pm
if you want ri see some great examples of locust bows check out badly bent, he builds some great bendy na style bows
Title: Re: Black locust design
Post by: Danzn Bar on December 04, 2016, 06:15:24 pm
Oh yea....Bend thru the handle Black Locust Native American Bows......what a mouth full......BB is your man....
DBar